The Director-General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, has urged Nigerians to embody the values of tolerance, environmental awareness and togetherness in their communities,
He said they must let the values of compassion and forgiveness guide their interactions with others as they commemorate the Eid-el-Adha Sallah celebration.
In a statement signed by the Deputy Director, Communication and Medi, Paul Odenyi, Mr. Issa-Onilu, while extending Sallah greetings to the Muslim faithful, described tolerance as a core value Nigerians should uphold.
“Embracing diversity and promoting understanding is key to building a harmonious society where citizens live in peace and mutual respect, particularly in a diverse nation like Nigeria”, he said
He noted that tolerance serves as a catalyst for national growth, which enables the nation to tap into the collective potential of its diverse population and thereby unlock unprecedented progress and prosperity.
The DG also underscored the critical importance of environmental awareness, urging Nigerians to prioritise sustainable living, responsible resource management, and climate action to safeguard the nation’s ecosystems and secure a livable future for generations to come.
“As we celebrate this sacred occasion, let us recognise our responsibility towards the environment and take collective action to protect it, particularly in the face of challenges like flooding that affected Mokwa Community in Niger State. Let us work together to prevent flooding, protect our communities, and promote sustainable practices that ensure a safer and more resilient future for all, “ he added.
Highlighting the Agency’s efforts in promoting Nigerian core values, the DG stated that NOA has developed the National Values Charter, which forges a reciprocal commitment between leaders and citizens, with tolerance and environmental awareness being integral components of the Citizen Codes.
He further charged the Muslim faithfuls to reflect the spirit of the Sallah celebration in promoting peace, tolerance and to let the values of compassion and forgiveness guide their interactions with others.
Olusola Akintonde